Applicator for coloring antiseptic

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates generally to applicators and a method of coloring antiseptics. More specifically, in one embodiment, the present invention relates to an applicator having a flexible hollow body containing antiseptic to be applied. The applicator also has a porous element containing colorant positioned such that the antiseptic flows through the porous element containing colorant. Colorant is transferred to the antiseptic as it flows through the porous element. The resulting colored solution may be applied to the desired surface.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The application is a continuation application and claims the benefit ofpriority to U.S. application Ser. No. 10/796,759 filed on Mar. 9, 2004which is a continuation application of and claims the benefit ofpriority to U.S. Pat. No. 6,729,786 filed on Mar. 14, 2003.

BACKGROUND

Applicators for applying liquids such as medicaments or cleansing agentsare known in the prior art. Conventional applicators typically provide agenerally cylindrical body construction and include a glass ampouleretained within the body; a sponge or tip secured to the body, at leastone surface of which is exposed to the ampoule; and a means forfracturing the ampoule such that when the ampoule is fractured, theliquid stored therein is dispensed to the sponge for application.

When a non-colored or clear liquid is applied using these applicators,it is difficult for the user to see where the liquid has been applied.Thus, in many situations, it is necessary to utilize colored liquid sothat the user knows where the liquid has been applied. For example,antiseptics or medicaments used as a pre-operative liquid are applied tothe body just prior to surgery. It is essential that the user be ablesee where the pre-operative liquid has been applied. If thepre-operative liquid is colored, it is easier for the user to discernwhere the liquid has been applied to the body. If the pre-operativeliquid is colored, it is easier for the user to discern where the liquidhas been applied to the body.

However, it is difficult to apply a colored liquid using theseapplicators. Numerous problems are encountered when color, such as atint or dye, is added to a liquid using an applicator of this type. Forexample, when a tint or dye is added to a liquid, the shelf life of theliquid may be shortened and/or the colored solution may become unstable.A further problem is colorant may settle out of the liquid. If colorantsettles out of the liquid there may be non-uniform distribution of thecolored liquid when applied.

SUMMARY

The present invention provides a liquid applicator for applying adesired liquid to a surface, the applicator comprises: at least oneampoule formed of a frangible material and adapted to contain liquid tobe applied; at least one hollow body defining an internal chamberadapted to receive at least one ampoule; and at least one porous elementthat contains colorant, wherein the porous element may be a porous pluglocated between the ampoule and the open end of the body and/or theporous element may be a porous pad closing off an open end of the body,and wherein the porous element is positioned such that liquid flowsthrough the porous element when at least one ampoule is fractured andcolorant is transferred to the liquid to be applied.

The present invention further provides a method of making a porous plugcontaining colorant. The method comprises mixing water, dye andisopropyl alcohol, saturating the porous plug with the mixture andallowing the porous plug to dry.

Accordingly, the present invention further provides a liquid applicatorfor applying a desired liquid to a surface, the applicator comprises: atleast one ampoule formed of a frangible material and adapted to containliquid to be applied; at least one hollow body defining an internalchamber adapted to receive at least one ampoule; a porous plugcontaining colorant, such that liquid flows through the porous plug whenthe ampoule is fractured and colorant is transferred to the liquid to beapplied; and a porous pad secured to said body and closing off an openend thereof, such that the colored liquid flows through said porous pad.

By providing a liquid applicator in accordance with the presentinvention, numerous advantages are realized. For example, a user may usethe application to apply a stable colored liquid. Further, colorant willnot settle out of the liquid and cause non-uniform distribution ofcolorant in the liquid. This is important when it is employed to applypre-operative liquid to indicate to the user where the liquid has beenapplied.

Additional aspects of the invention, together with the advantages andnovel features appurtenant thereto, will be set forth in part in thedescription which follows, and in part will become apparent to thoseskilled in the art upon examination of the following, or may be learnedfrom the practice of the invention. The objects and advantages of theinvention may be realized and attained by means, instrumentalities andcombinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the accompanying drawings which form a part of the specification andare to be read in conjunction therewith, and in which like referencenumerals are employed to indicate like parts in the various views:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a liquid applicator constructed inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a side plan view of a liquid applicator constructed inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention with a portion of theapplicator body removed to expose the ampoule and the porous plug;

FIG. 3 is a side plan view of a liquid applicator constructed inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention exposing the ampoulebeing fractured and the liquid flowing through the porous plug;

FIG. 4 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view taken generally across line4-4 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a liquid applicator constructed inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 is a side plan view of a liquid applicator constructed inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention exposing the ampoulesbeing fractured and the liquid flowing through the porous plug; and

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the vent located at the distance of anapplicator constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the inventionenclosed by line 7 in FIG. 5.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A liquid applicator for applying a desired colored liquid to a surfaceis provided. The applicator comprises a hollow body defining an internalchamber to receive at least one ampoule formed of a frangible materialand containing the liquid to be applied. The liquid applicator furthercomprises at least one porous element containing colorant positionedsuch that upon fracturing at least one ampoule, the liquid flows thoughthe porous element(s) containing colorant. Colorant is transferred tothe liquid as it flows through the porous element containing colorant.The resulting colored solution may be applied to the desired surface.

The ampoule(s) may be used for containing various liquids such asmedicaments, cleansing agents, cosmetics, polishes or the like. Further,it will be appreciated that the ampoule(s) may be numerous differentshapes and sizes depending on the amount of liquid needed to be applied.For example, the applicator of the present invention may include longcylindrical ampoule(s) or may contain vial-type ampoule(s). Furthermore,more than one ampoule may be received by the body. Preferably, theampoule(s) are formed of glass, although other materials are entirelywithin the scope of the present invention. The wall of the ampoules isof a thickness sufficient to contain the desired liquid during transportand storage, yet allow the ampoule to be fractured upon the applicationof localized pressure.

The body of the present embodiment of the invention may take many forms.The body has an internal chamber that is adapted to receive at least oneampoule. The body may also be shaped to hold multiple ampoules. In oneform, the body is shaped to generally conform to the ampoule(s)contained within the body.

The porous element of the present invention also may take many forms.The porous element may be a porous plug and/or a porous pad. In otherwords, colorant may be contained in or on a porous plug located withinthe body of the applicator between the ampoule and an open end of thebody. Colorant may be contained in or on a porous pad located at an openend of the body. The porous element is positioned such that when theampoule(s) is fractured, the liquid flows through the porous element andcolorant is transferred to the liquid to be applied. The porous elementmay be made of any porous material that allows liquid to flow throughthe material. The porous element may be, but is not limited to, afabric, foam or a felt material. Colorant may be saturated throughoutthe porous element or colorant may be placed only on part of the elementdepending the amount of colorant need to achieve the desired color forthe liquid.

Colorant may be a tint, pigment, dye, paint or any other substance thatimparts or changes a hue of a liquid. For example, F D & C colorants maybe used with the present embodiment of the invention. Furthermore, anycombination of colorants may be used.

The ampoule(s) contained within the body of the applicator may be brokenby any method known to those skilled in the art. These include, but arenot limited to, squeezing the walls of the body inwardly to break theampoule(s), using a lever or other mechanism to break the ampoule(s), orutilizing projecting wings with tappets as described below.

EXAMPLE 1

Referring to the drawings in general and initially to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2in particular, where like reference numerals identify like elements inthe various views, a liquid applicator manifesting aspects of theinvention is illustrated and designated generally by the numeral 10. Theliquid applicator 10 generally includes a body 12, at least one closedampoule for containing liquid 14 received in the body 12, and porous pad16 secured to body 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the liquidapplicator 10 also includes a porous plug 15 that contains colorant.

In the illustrated embodiment, the ampoule 14 contains an antisepticsolution to be applied to a patient's skin prior to surgery. Theantiseptic used in the illustrated embodiment is chlorohexadinegluconate. However, any liquid may be used with the liquid applicator ofthe embodiment of the present invention. The ampoule 14 is illustratedas an elongated cylinder, which defines a central longitudinal axis.However, it will be appreciated that the principles of the presentinvention also may be applied to spherical or elongated polygonalampoules. Preferably, the ampoule 14 is formed of glass, although othermaterials are entirely within the scope of the present invention.

In the illustrated embodiment, body 12, is of a generally hollowcylindrical shape and includes axially opposed first and second ends 18,20 and presents a central longitudinal axis “x”. The proximal first end18 is open and the distal second end 20 is closed. The illustrated body12 is formed of high-density polyethylene, although any materialexhibiting similar flexibility and integrity may be used in theillustrated embodiment, the second end 20 is closed during the moldingprocess obviating the need for a cap or the like. However, the secondend may be open or may be closed using a cap. The illustrated body 12 iselongated and defines a central longitudinal axis, which is collinearwith the central longitudinal axis of the ampoule 14. Preferably, thethickness of the wall is between 0.012-0.150 inches. More preferably,the thickness of the wall is approximately 0.050 inches.

Body 12 includes an interior wall 21, which defines an internal chamber22 within body 12. Interior wall 21 is shaped to conform generally withthe shape of the ampoule 14, which is received within the internalchamber 22. With reference to FIG. 4, the circumference of the interiorwall 21 is slightly larger than the outer surface of the ampoule bodysuch that a plurality of inwardly projecting ridges 40 positioned on theinterior wall 21 of the hollow body 12 supports the ampoule 14 therein.Preferably, the interior wall 21 includes four inwardly projectingridges 40, which are offset from one another by approximately 90 degreesaround the interior wall 21 of body 12. The ridges 40 engage theperiphery of the ampoule to maintain the ampoule 14 within the internalchamber 22 and prevent untoward movement of shards of the ampoulethrough the porous pad 16 when fracturing of the ampoule is affected, asmore fully described below.

Referring again to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, body 12 further presents a flange24 protruding from the open end 18 along the periphery thereof. In theillustrated embodiment, the flange 24 is continuously molded to the body12 and is disposed at an angle of 45 degrees, with respect to thecentral longitudinal axis of the body. The flange 24 is adapted tosupport the porous pad 16, as more fully described below.

Body 12 also includes a pair of elongated gripping members 26, 28 whichare diametrically opposed and project from the body. Each grippingmember 26, 28 include an attachment portion 30 outwardly extending fromthe body 12 and a handling portion 32 extending from the distal end ofthe attachment portion 30.

Body 12 also includes structure for fracturing the ampoule 14. In theillustrated embodiment, the structure includes breaking tabs or tappets36, 38 interposed between the gripping members 26, 28 and the body 12.Upon depression of the gripping members 26, 28, the breaking tabs 36, 38flex the body 12 inwardly, thereby localizing the forces effected bysqueezing the members 26, 28 toward one another and enhancing fracturingof the ampoule 14 as more fully described below. It will be appreciated,however, that the principles of the present invention are equallyapplicable to various other structures and methods for fracturing theampoule 14.

In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid applicator 10 of the presentinvention is constructed to house a 6.0 ml or 10.5 ml ampoule. It willbe understood and appreciated, however, that various numbers of ampoulesand ampoules of various sizes may be utilized and such is contemplatedto be within the scope of the present invention.

In the illustrated example, a porous pad 16 such as a sponge or the likecloses off the open end 18 of the body 12. The porous pad 16 is receivedon flange 24 and encloses the ampoule 14 within the internal chamber 22.The porous pad 16 is disposed at angle 45 degrees with respect to thecentral longitudinal axis of the body 12. Thus, the liquid may bereleased to flow by gravity upon fracture of the ampoule 14 to theporous pad 16 affixed to the open end 18 of body 12.

The porous pad 16 is formed of felt or an open-celled foam material thatis laminated on one side with a laminate material. The laminated feltmaterial used in the illustrated embodiment was Novonnete® SP-64 (3905)Polyester (Non-Woven) was laminated to 0.360″±0.032″ SIF-# 3-1000Z felt,(Natural Color Non-Pigmented) Reticulated Polyester Urethane. Thelaminate material may also be a woven or non-woven polyester materialsuch as polyethylene. The laminate material of the porous pad 16 ispositioned between the open-celled foam material and the flange 24 ofthe body 12. By employing a porous pad having a laminate as describedherein, numerous advantages are realized. For example, the materialpresents a physical barrier that resists puncture by glass fragments ofthe fractured ampoule. Further, the laminate material also increases thebond strength of pad 16 to body 12.

The illustrated porous pad 16 is cut from a sheet of sponge materialhaving the desired porosity for the liquid to be dispensed, wherebyliquid is prevented from flowing immediately through the pad 16 when theampoule 14 is fractured. In other words, once an ampoule 14 isfractured, the released liquid saturates porous plug 15 and thensaturates pad 16 and flows from pad 16 only as the surface absorbs theliquid from the saturated pad 16. Consequently, the body 12 essentiallyfunctions as a reservoir of the desired liquid. The porous pad 16 ispreferably generally circular in shape although it will be appreciatedthat the pad may be of any desired size and shape, which is capable ofbeing supported on the flange 24.

In the illustrated embodiment, porous plug 15 is positioned betweenporous pad 16 and ampoule 14. Porous plug 15 may be any porous material.In the illustrated embodiment, the porous plug is an open-celled foammaterial or felt, preferably, Novonnete® SP-64 (3905) Polyester(Non-Woven) was laminated to 0.360″±0.032″ SIF-# 3-1000Z felt, (NaturalColor Non-Pigmented) Reticulated Polyester Urethane. The diameter ofporous plug 15 is approximately 0.709 inches. Porous plug 15 helpscontrol the rate liquid flows from the body and prevents shards of glassfrom pushing through porous pad 16 during use of the applicator. Porousplug 15 is cut from a sheet of foam or felt material having the desiredporosity for the liquid to be dispensed. In the illustrated embodiment,colorant is contained with the porous plug. Further, in the illustratedembodiment the colorant contained in the porous plug was CAS No.2353-45-9 FD&C Green #3 dye. The porous plug containing colorantutilized in the illustrated embodiment was prepared using the methoddescribed in Example 3

During formation of the applicator, the ampoule 14 is inserted into theinternal chamber 22 of the body 12. Thereafter, the porous plug 15 isinserted into the internal chamber of the body 12 between ampoule 14 andflange 24. Then the porous pad 16 is secured to the body 12 of theapplicator by welding the laminate material to the flange 24 using anultrasonic welding operation. The polyester material of the laminateprovides suitable welding material that melts together with the materialof the flange 24 to secure the porous pad 16 in place over the internalchamber 22 and enclose the ampoule 14. Securing the porous pad 16 on theflange 24 in this manner facilitates preventing leakage between theflange 24 and the pad 16. It will be appreciated that other suitablesecuring expedients could be employed in place of the ultrasonic weldingoperation. For example, the porous pad 16 could be secured in place byan adhesive or stitching, or by heat sealing or chemically bonding thepad in place. Such alternative securing expedients are contemplated tobe within the scope of the present invention.

With reference to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, in use, the applicator 10 presents ahand-held liquid applicator that is squeezed to release the desiredliquid contained therein for application to a surface. The applicator 10is designed to be grasped by the user so that the gripping members 26,28 are held between the thumb or palm and fingers of one hand of theuser, thus allowing for single-handed operation. The ampoule 14 isfractured by the user squeezing the gripping members 26, 28 toward oneanother. The movement of the members 26, 28 is transferred by the tabs36, 38 to the body 12 to deform the body 12 inwardly and exert discretelocalized fracturing forces against the ampoule 14. The gripping membersprovide a lever action that gains mechanical advantage as the membersare squeezed toward one another. Accordingly, if the user has limitedgripping strength, or if the wall of the ampoule is exceptionally thick,the members ensure fracturing of the ampoule.

As shown in FIG. 3, once the members 26, 28 have been sufficientlysqueezed together, the resulting forces fracture the ampoule 14releasing the liquid contained therein. Once ampoule 14 is fractured,body 12 essentially functions as a reservoir of the desired liquid. Thereleased liquid under the force of gravity flows down body 12, throughporous plug 15 saturating the porous plug 15 which contains colorant.Consequently, the liquid flows through the porous plug 15 and colorantis transferred to the liquid. The colored liquid 19 then flows throughopen end 18 and through porous pad 16 which may also contain colorant.As the liquid flows through the porous pad 16, colorant is transferredfrom the pad to the liquid. Thereafter, application of the coloredliquid 19 is accomplished by bringing porous pad 16 into contact withthe desired surface. The user may then use a painting or scrubbingmotion to apply the liquid to the surface. The entire process offracturing ampoule 14 and applying the liquid to a desired surface isachieved with the use of only one hand of the user.

EXAMPLE 2

With reference FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, in particular, where like reference;numerals identify like elements in the various views, an embodiment ofthe liquid applicator is illustrated and designated generally by thenumeral 41. Liquid applicator 41 generally includes a body 42, and aporous pad 44 secured to flange 46 of body 42 and a lever 48.

Two ampoules 50 and 52 are received in body 42. The liquid applicator 41is constructed to house two 13 ml ampoules. The thickness of the wallsof the 13 ml ampoules is about 0.3 mm. However, ampoules of varioussizes may be used. Ampoules 50 and 52 may be used for containing variousliquids such as medicaments, cleansing agents, cosmetics, polishes orthe like. In the illustrated embodiment, ampoules 50 and 52 containantiseptic solution to be applied to a patient's skin prior to surgery.Ampoules 50 and 52 are illustrated as elongated cylinders with a centrallongitudinal axis. However, it will be appreciated that the principlesof the present invention also may be applied to spherical or elongatedpolygonal ampoules. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that theprinciples of the present invention may be applied to more than twoampoules.

Preferably, ampoules 50 and 52 are formed of glass, although othermaterials are entirely within the scope of the present invention. In theillustrated embodiment, ampoules 50 and 52 are placed side by sidewithin body 42. The wall of glass ampoules 50 and 52 is of a thicknesssufficient to contain the desired liquid during transport and storage,yet allow ampoules 50 and 52 to be fractured upon the application oflocalized pressure.

Body 42 is generally hollow and oval or elliptical in shape and includesaxially opposed first and second ends 54, 56. The proximal first end 54is open and distal second end 56 is closed with cap 58. Illustrated body42 is formed of high-density polyethylene, although any materialexhibiting similar flexibility and integrity may be used. In theillustrated embodiment, body 42 and cap 58 were molded with 100% virginmaterial DOW, HDPE, Resin # 12454N, as defined in FDA Master File Number4251. In the preferred embodiment, second end 56 is closed with cap 58,however second end may also be closed during the molding processobviating the need for a cap or the like.

Body 42 includes an interior wall 60 which defines an internal chamber62 within body 42. Interior wall 60 is shaped to conform generally withthe shape of ampoules 50 and 52 which are received within internalchamber 62. The circumference of interior wall 60 is slightly largerthan the outer surface of the two ampoule bodies. Dividing wall 64 ofhollow body 42 separates ampoules 50 and 52 and maintains ampoules 50and 52 within internal chamber 62. Illustrated body 42 is elongated anddefines a central longitudinal axis “x”.

The thickness of the wall of the applicator may be between 0.040 to0.080 inches and preferably is approximately 0.060 inches, except thinwall 66. The thickness of the wall of body 42 is reduced around crusharea 64. Thin wall 66 may be between 0.020 to 0.040 inches andpreferably is 0.030 inches. However, it will be appreciated thatdifferent wall sizes may be used within the scope of the embodiment ofthe invention. Thin wall 66 makes it easier for crush portion 68 oflever 48 to fracture multiple ampoules when lever 48 is depressed. Thiswill be discussed in more detail later.

Body 42 further presents a flange 46 protruding from proximal end 54along the periphery thereof. In the preferred embodiment, flange 46 iscontinuously molded to body 42 and is disposed at an angle. Preferably,flange 46 is disposed an angle of 45°, with respect to the centrallongitudinal axis of the body. It will be appreciated that flange 46 maybe disposed at a variety of angles with respect to the centrallongitudinal axis of body 42. Flange 46 is adapted to support porous pad44, as more fully described below.

Porous pad 44, such as a sponge or the like, closes off open end 54 ofbody 42. Porous pad 44 is received on flange 46 and encloses ampoules 50and 52 within internal chamber 62. Porous pad 44 may be formed of feltor an open-celled foam material. In the illustrated embodiment, porouspad 44 was formed of SIF-# 3-1000Z felt, (Natural Color Non-Pigmented)Reticulated Polyester Urethane.

Porous pad 44 is cut from a sheet of foam or felt material having thedesired porosity for the liquid to be dispensed. Porous pad 44 ispreferably generally square in shape although it will be appreciatedthat the pad may be of any desired size and shape which is capable ofbeing supported on flange 46.

In the illustrated embodiment, a woven or non-woven laminate material islaminated to porous pad 44. The material laminate material may be awoven or non-woven polyester material. In the illustrated embodiment,Novonnete® SP-64 (3905) Polyester (Non-Woven) was laminated to0.360″±0.032″ SIF-# 3-1000Z felt, (Natural Color Non-Pigmented)Reticulated Polyester Urethane. The laminate material is positionedbetween porous pad 44 and flange 46 of body 42. As such, the laminatematerial functions to prevent shards of glass from the fracturedampoules from pushing through the porous pad during use of theapplicator. The laminate material also provides a suitable weldingmaterial for securing the porous pad in place on the body when anultrasonic welding operation is used to manufacture the applicator.

In the illustrated embodiment, porous plug 70 is positioned betweenporous pad 44 and ampoules 50 and 52. Porous plug 70 may be anopen-celled foam material or felt. In the illustrated embodiment,Novonette® SP-64 (3905) Polyester (Non-Woven) was laminated to0.360″±0.032″ SIF-#3-1000Z Felt, (Natural Color Non-Pigmented)Reticulated Polyester Urethane. Porous plug 70 helps control the rateliquid flows from the body and prevents shards of glass from pushingthrough porous pad 44 during use of the applicator. Porous plug 70 iscut from a sheet of foam or felt material having the desired porosityfor the liquid to be dispensed. In the illustrated embodiment, colorantis contained with the porous plug. Further, in the illustratedembodiment the colorant contained in the porous plug was CAS No.2353-45-9 FD&C Green #3 dye. The porous plug containing colorantutilized in the illustrated embodiment was prepared using the methoddescribed in Example 3.

Body 42 also includes a lever 48 projecting from the top portion of body42. However, it will be appreciated that lever 48 may project from anyportion of body 42. Lever 48 is any mechanism for fracturing more thanone ampoule at substantially the same time. Lever 48, includes hingeportion 72, crush portion 68 and handling portion 74 extending from thedistal end of lever 48. Preferably, lever 48 extends outwardly from body42 at an angle of between 20° and 40° with respect to the centrallongitudinal axis of body 42. More preferably, lever 48 extends frombody 42 at approximately 27° with respect to the central longitudinalaxis “x” of body 42. It will be appreciated that lever 48 may bedisposed at a variety of angles with respect to the central longitudinalaxis of body 42.

In the illustrated embodiment, lever 48 is continuously molded with body42. It will be understood and appreciated, however, that separatelyformed levers are contemplated to be within the scope of the presentinvention.

Handling portion 74 of lever 48 of the illustrated embodiment is spacedbetween 0.5 and 1.5 inches from body 42. Preferably, handling portion 74is spaced approximately 1.0 inch from body 42. Handling portion 74 oflever 48 includes a textured outer surface to facilitate handling ofapplicator 41 and to inhibit slippage from the user's hand duringapplication.

In the illustrated embodiment, lever 48 includes crush portion 68 andhinge portion 72 attached to body 42. It will be appreciated, however,that the principles of the present invention are equally applicable tovarious other structures for fracturing ampoules 50 and 52, such asmultiple crush portions, multiple hinge portions and a crush portionthat may be attached or detached to body 42. Handling portion 74 oflever 48 presents a gripping area which is significantly larger than thearea of crush portion 68. Upon depression of lever 48, crush portion 68,flexes body 42 inwardly at thin wall 66, thereby localizing the forceseffected by depressing lever 48 toward body 42 and enhancing fracturingof ampoules 50 and 52 as more fully described below.

Several features of lever 48 of the illustrated embodiment enhance theability to fracture at least two ampoules at the same time including:the thickness of lever 48, the curvature of lever 48, support rib 76,the thickness of hinge portion 72 and the width of crush portion 68. Thethickness of lever 48 is approximately 0.080 to 0.15 inches andpreferably is 0.11 inches. In the illustrated embodiment, lever 48 isapproximately 2.35 inches long. Hinge portion 72 of the illustratedembodiment is thinner than the rest of lever 48. Hinge portion 72 isapproximately 0.040 to 0.080 inches thick, preferably 0.060 inchesthick. The curvature of lever 48 and support rib 37 increase theleverage of handling portion 74 of lever 48 making it easier for theuser to fracture two ampoules substantially simultaneously.

The ratio of the width of crush portion 68 to the width of ampoules 50and 52 side by side is important with respect to reliable breakage ofampoules 50 and 52. In the illustrated embodiment, the width of thecrush portion 68 had to be at least approximately ⅕ the width of the twoampoules side by side to produce breakage of the ampoules almostsimultaneously. The width of the two ampoules side by side wasapproximately 1.03 inches. The minimum width of the crush portion of thelever that produces breakage of the ampoules almost simultaneously was0.200 inches. Thus, a length aspect ratio for reliable ampoule break was1.03/0.200 or 5.15. All of these features, either singularly or incombination, along with thin wall 66, help enhance the ability of thelever to break multiple ampoules at the same time.

With reference to FIG. 7, vent 80 of the illustrated embodiment isshown. Vent 80 is located at distal end 56 of body 42. Vent 80 is asmall cut out portion of body 42 allowing air to flow from internalchamber 62 of body 42 to the outside of body 42 and vice versa. This isaccomplished by a small cut out portion of body 42 starting on theoutside of body 42, going over the lip of body 42 and continuing insidebody 42. Internal cut out portion 82, external cut out portion 84 andcut out lip 86 allow air to flow in and out of internal chamber 62 ofbody 42 underneath cap 58. Cap 58 entirely seals off internal chamber 62except for cut out vent 80.

Restraint element 78 is positioned between ampoules 50 and 52 and porousplug 70. Restraint element 78 allows liquid to flow from body 42,through porous plug 70 and into porous pad 44. Restraint element 78restrains ampoules 50 and 52 in a position to facilitate properbreaking. Restraint element 78 holds the ends of ampoules 50 and 52 nearcrush point 64 so that the ends of ampoules are properly broken and donot restrict the flow of liquid. Restraint element 78 may take a varietyof shapes depending on the type of liquid to be applied. In theillustrated embodiment, restraint element 78 has two fan-shapedopenings.

In use, applicator 41 presents a hand-held liquid applicator whereinlever 48 is depressed to release the desired liquid contained withinampoules 50 and 52 therein for application to a surface. Applicator 41of the illustrated embodiment is grasped by one hand of a user. Thebottom of body 42 is grasped with the palm and fingers of user, theuser's fingers wrap around the bottom and side of the body 42 so thetips of the user's fingers rest on the top of body 42. The thumb of thesame hand is positioned on handling portion 74 of lever 48 allowing forsingle-handed operation. The user depresses lever 48 toward body 42 tofracture ampoules 50 and 52. The movement of lever 48 is transferred bycrush portion 68 to thin wall 66 of body 42 to deform body 42 inwardlyand exert discrete localized fracturing forces against ampoules 50 and52. Lever 48 provides an action that gains mechanical advantage as lever48 is depressed toward body 42. Accordingly, if the user has limitedgripping strength, or if the wall of the ampoule is exceptionally thick,the lever ensures fracturing of the ampoules.

Once lever 48 has been sufficiently depressed, the resulting forcesfracture ampoules 50 and 52 almost simultaneously, thus releasing theliquid contained in each ampoule. The released liquid under the force ofgravity flows down body 42, saturating porous plug 70 which containscolorant. Consequently the liquid flows through porous plug 70 andcolorant is transferred to the liquid. The colored liquid 90 flowsthrough open end 54 and through porous pad 44. Thereafter, applicationof the colored liquid 90 is accomplished by bringing porous pad 44 intocontact with the desired surface. Thereafter, application of the liquidis accomplished by bringing porous pad 44 into contact with the desiredsurface. The user may then use a painting or scrubbing motion to applythe liquid to the surface. The entire process of fracturing ampoules 50and 52 and applying the liquid to a desired surface is achieved with theuse of only one hand of the user

EXAMPLE 3

In this example, colorant is contained in the porous plug of theapplicator. The illustrated example was done for both 10.5 mL porousplugs and 26 mL porous plugs. The material used for the porous plug wasNovonette SP-64 (3905) Polyester (Non-Woven) Laminated to 0.320 inchest+/−0.030 inches open cell, (Natural Color Non-Pigmented) PolyesterUrethane Reticulated Foam 80-100 PPI. The diameter of the 10.5 mL porousplug was 0.709 and its thickness was 0.023 inches. The size of the 26 mLporous plug was 1.06 inches×0.57 inches and it had a thickness of 0.023inches. The equipment used included a 5 gallon nalgene carboy containerwith pouring spout, air motor, 3″ stainless steel shaft, 3″ foldingblade mixing propeller, and a Metek digital tachometer—Model 1726 tomeasure shaft RPM.

Colorant is added to the porous plugs using the following method. First,the tint to alcohol ratio (grams of tint/grams of 70% isopropyl alcohol(IPA)) was determined to ensure a consistent color shade when applied tothe treatment area. The following calculations were use to determine thetint to alcohol ratio:${5\quad{gallons}\quad{of}\quad 70\%\quad{IPA}} = {{\frac{5\quad{{Gal}.}}{1} \times \frac{3785.412\quad{mL}}{1\quad{{Gal}.}} \times \frac{0.879\quad{grams}}{mL}} = {16,637\quad{grams}\quad{of}\quad{IPA}}}$${\frac{{Grams}\quad{of}\quad{green}\quad{\# 3}}{16,637\quad{grams}\quad{of}\quad{IPA}}->{{grams}\quad{of}\quad{green}\quad{\# 3}}} = {{16,637\quad{{gr}.\quad{IPA}} \times 0.00375} = {62.39\quad{{gr}.\quad{of}}\quad{green}\quad{\# 3}}}$

The tint to alcohol ratio for consistent color with CAS No. 2353-45-9FD&C Green #3 dye was approximately 0.00375.

Five (5) gallons of 70% IPA (16.64 Kg) was added to the five (5) galloncarboy container. Then 62.4 grams of CAS No. 2353-45-9 FD&C Green #3 dyewas added to the five (5) gallons of 70% IPA. The carboy container wasplaced onto a cart containing an air motor fixture. The air motor wasdropped down and secured to the fixture while the shaft and propellerwere centered through the carboy opening. The solution was mixed with ashaft rotation of 500 rmp for thirty (30) minutes to ensure totaldissolution of the dye into the 70% IPA.

After the dye had thoroughly dissolved into 70% IPA, the safetydispensing jug was removed from the mixer apparatus and closure cap wastightened. The solution was poured into a tank with a correspondingdipping basket. The porous plugs were placed into a dipping basket andlowered into the tank. Solution was added as necessary until porousplugs were completely saturated in dyed solution. The dipping basket wasremoved from the tank and excess solution was drained. The wet porousplugs were placed onto surface covered with plastic to dry for 24 hours.

Thirty random porous plug samples were obtained and their individual wetweights were recorded and analyzed with the aid of MINITAB statisticalanalysis software package. As may be seen in the results below, theaverage wet weight was about two (2) grams, while the lowest weightmeasured was close to 1.8 grams and the highest was 2.1 grams. Thefollowing Tables 1, 2 and 3 list the properties of the tinted porousplugs of the present example. TABLE 1 Process Data USL (UpperSpecification Limit) 2.2500 LSL (Lower Specification Limit) 1.7500 Mean2.0061 Sample Number 30 Standard Deviation (Within) 0.0825230 StandardDeviation (Overall) 0.0816697

Constructed and operated as previously described, this inventionprovides a liquid applicator and a method of coloring a liquid. Morespecifically, the present invention relates to a liquid applicatorhaving a flexible hollow body within which a liquid-filled, glassampoule is received. The liquid applicator also has porous elementhaving colorant closing off an open end of the body. When the ampoule isfractured, the liquid flows through the porous element having colorant.Colorant is transferred to the liquid as it flows through the porouselement having colorant. The resulting colored solution may be appliedto the desired surface.

From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is one welladapted to attain all the ends and objects hereinabove set forthtogether with other advantages which are obvious and which are inherentin the structure. It will be understood that certain features andsubcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference toother features and subcombinations. This is contemplated by and iswithin the scope of the claims. Since many possible embodiments may bemade of the invention without departing from the scope thereof, it is tobe understood that all matter herein set forth or shown in theaccompanying drawings is to be interpreted as illustrative and not in alimiting sense.

1. A applicator for applying a desired antiseptic to a surface, theapplicator comprising: at least one hollow body defining an internalchamber adapted to contain antiseptic to be applied; and at least oneporous element that contains colorant, wherein the porous elementpositioned such that the antiseptic flows through the porous elementwhen at least one ampoule is fractured and colorant is transferred tothe antiseptic to be applied.
 2. The applicator as recited in claim 1,wherein the antiseptic to be applied comprises chlorhexidine gluconate.3. The applicator as recited in claim 1, wherein the porous element is aporous pad.
 4. The applicator as recited in claim 1, the porous elementis a porous plug.
 5. The applicator recited in claim 1, wherein theporous element is one of a foam and felt material.
 6. The applicatorrecited in claim 1, wherein the colorant changes the hue of theantiseptic.
 7. The applicator recited in claim 1, wherein the colorantadds hue to the antiseptic.
 8. The applicator of claim 1, wherein thecolorant is one of a tint, dye, pigment and paint.
 9. The applicator ofclaim 8, wherein the colorant is a dye.
 10. The applicator of claim 9,wherein the colorant is FD&C Green #3 dye.
 11. The applicator of claim1, wherein the porous element is imbibed with colorant.
 12. Theapplicator of claim 1, wherein the colorant is located on the surface ofa porous element.
 13. A method of making an applicator, the applicatorshaped for containing antiseptic to be applied, the method comprising:providing a substantially hollow body adapted to contain antiseptic tobe applied; and positioning at least one porous element comprisingcolorant such that the antiseptic flows through said element and atleast some of the colorant is transferred to the antiseptic to beapplied.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the antiseptic to beapplied comprises chlorhexidine gluconate.
 15. The method of claim 13,wherein the at least one porous element is a porous pad.
 16. The methodof claim 13, wherein the at least one porous element is a porous plug.17. The method of claim 13, further comprising: securing to said body aporous pad, said pad positioned to close off said open end of said body,such that antiseptic flows from said body and through said pad.
 18. Aapplicator for applying a desired antiseptic to a surface, theapplicator comprising: at least one hollow body defining an internalchamber adapted to contain antiseptic to be applied, wherein theantiseptic comprises chlorhexidine gluconate; and at least one porouselement comprises at least one F, D & C colorant, wherein the porouselement is positioned such that the antiseptic flows through the porouselement and colorant is transferred to the antiseptic to be applied. 19.The applicator as recited in claim 18, wherein the porous element is aporous pad.
 20. The applicator as recited in claim 19, wherein theporous element is a porous plug.